Mississippi Cattlemen's and Cattlewomen's Association Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Mississippi Cattlemen's Foundation

Star Jr. Cattleman Award

The Star Jr. Cattleman Award encourages youth to take an active role in their cattle operations and highlights the dedication and passion invested in the future of Mississippi agriculture. Applications request detailed information about the applicant’s herd, partners, awards, operation history, management practices, future goals, and a pictorial digest of the operation. Applicants are expected to provide thoughtful, factual responses and supporting materials that illustrate their management and involvement. This award is intended to recognize real-world experience and the applicant’s level of control and responsibility within their cattle operation.

Description: A youth-focused recognition designed to showcase management, hard work, and commitment to Mississippi cattle production.

Application Timeline: Due: November

• Focuses on individual youth cattle operations and management.
• Requires detailed written summaries and a pictorial digest (no slides or videos).
• Applicants must document herd numbers, partnerships, awards, and future plans.

Mississippi’s STAR Junior Cattleman — Rules & Guidelines

Mississippi’s STAR Junior Cattleman program concentrates on the applicant’s actual cattle operation and measures knowledge, management, record keeping, and communication skills. It accepts operations of any size, including show calves, registered herds, and commercial herds, and bases decisions on management and the applicant’s control of the operation. The program is administered through the Mississippi Cattlemen’s Association (MCA) and follows specific eligibility and entry procedures. Winners are recognized at MCA events and receive awards that may include scholarships, trophies, and publication.

Description: Emphasizes real-world management, application of knowledge, and the applicant’s direct role in the cattle operation.

Eligibility: Applicant must be a paid member of the Mississippi Junior Cattlemen’s Association; there are junior (9th grade and below) and senior (10th grade to age 21) divisions; siblings may enter as one entry in the oldest division.

Award Value: Winners receive cash or scholarship awards, embroidered or engraved trophies, and publicity including a published photo and article in Cattle Business in Mississippi magazine.

Application Timeline: Entries must be returned to the Mississippi Cattlemen’s Association, Star Junior, 680 Monroe Street, Suite A, Jackson, MS 39202, and be in the MCA office no later than mid-May. Contact 601-354-8951 for applications and information. Winners are announced at Making Tracks Summer Camp at Mississippi State University in June.

• Program evaluates management, record keeping, and communication, not herd size.
• Clear eligibility rules with junior and senior divisions and sibling entry option.
• Multiple award types including scholarships and magazine coverage.
• Application packets must arrive at the MCA office by mid-May.

Cattleman of the Year Application

The Cattleman of the Year award recognizes an individual whose leadership, dedication, and contributions have made a lasting impact on Mississippi’s beef cattle industry. The award honors excellence in production, stewardship, and service to the industry and community and highlights achievements in herd improvement, mentoring, advocacy, and conservation. Nominees are evaluated on demonstrated leadership within the industry, innovative or sustainable practices, and documented contributions to advancing cattle production in Mississippi. The application collects background information and operational details to support the nominee’s qualifications.

Description: Honors outstanding individual contributions to Mississippi’s beef cattle industry, including production excellence and community service.

Application Timeline: Due: January

Application Requirements: Applicants should provide background and industry involvement (years farming, years as an MCA member, leadership roles, and contributions) and describe the farming operation (major enterprises, type of cattle operation and herd size, management philosophy, accomplishments, and any innovative or sustainability practices).

• Award recognizes leadership, stewardship, and industry impact at the individual level.
• Applications require detailed background, MCA involvement, and operational descriptions.
• Emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and documented contributions to the cattle industry.